Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A control device comprising: a controller configured to: repeatedly obtain a first related value with a first period, the first related value being related to print amount of a print executing unit; every time the first related value is obtained with the first period, execute a first comparison process of comparing a second related value being related to the print amount and a first threshold being related to the print amount, the second related value being obtained by using the first related value which is obtained at this time; repeatedly obtain the first related value with a second period being shorter than the first period in a case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold, wherein the first related value is not obtained with the second period in a case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is less than or equal to the print amount being related to the first threshold; every time the first related value is obtained with the second period, execute a second comparison process of comparing the second related value being obtained by using the first related value which is obtained at this time and a second threshold being related to the print amount, wherein the print amount being related to the second threshold is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold; and execute a related process that is related to print executed by the print executing unit in a case where it is determined in the second comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the second threshold, wherein the related process is not executed in a case where it is determined in the second comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is less than or equal to the print amount being related to the second threshold.
2. The control device as in claim 1 , wherein the first comparison process is a process of determining whether the second related value is larger than the first threshold, the second comparison process is a process of determining whether the second related value is larger than the second threshold, the first threshold is a value less than an upper value that is an upper limit of the second related value, and the second threshold is a value less than the upper value and larger than the first threshold.
A control device monitors a system parameter by comparing a second related value, derived from a first related value, against two thresholds. The first comparison process checks if the second related value exceeds a first threshold, while the second comparison process checks if it exceeds a second threshold. The first threshold is set below an upper limit of the second related value, and the second threshold is higher than the first but still below the upper limit. This dual-threshold approach allows the device to distinguish between different operational states or conditions based on the magnitude of the second related value. The first related value may be a measured or calculated parameter, such as temperature, pressure, or another system variable, and the second related value is derived from it, possibly through filtering, averaging, or other processing. The thresholds define critical ranges, enabling the device to trigger different responses or adjustments depending on whether the second related value falls between the thresholds or exceeds them. This method ensures precise control by avoiding false triggers while maintaining responsiveness to significant deviations.
3. The control device as in claim 1 , wherein the first related value is the number of print media that have been printed by the print executing unit, and the second related value is identical to the first related value.
A control device for a printing system monitors and manages print media usage. The device tracks the number of print media sheets processed by a print executing unit, such as a printer, and compares this count against a predefined threshold. When the count reaches or exceeds the threshold, the control device triggers a maintenance or replacement action, such as prompting a user to replace a consumable component like ink or toner. The device ensures accurate tracking by synchronizing the count of printed media with the actual usage, preventing discrepancies that could lead to premature or delayed maintenance. This system improves print reliability and reduces downtime by ensuring timely maintenance based on actual usage rather than arbitrary schedules. The control device may also include a display or notification system to alert users when maintenance is required, enhancing operational efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in high-volume printing environments where precise tracking of consumable usage is critical for maintaining performance and minimizing waste.
4. The control device as in claim 1 , wherein the first related value is the number of cartridges that have been used by the print executing unit, and the second related value is identical to the first related value.
A control device for a printing system monitors and manages the usage of print cartridges to optimize maintenance and performance. The device tracks the number of cartridges consumed by the printing unit, ensuring accurate and synchronized data between the first and second related values. Both values represent the same count of used cartridges, allowing the system to maintain consistency in tracking and reporting. This feature helps prevent discrepancies in usage data, which can lead to incorrect maintenance scheduling or premature cartridge replacement. The control device integrates with the printing system to collect real-time usage data, process it, and store it for reference. By ensuring both values are identical, the system avoids errors that could arise from mismatched data, improving reliability and efficiency in print operations. The device may also include additional functionalities, such as alerting users when cartridge replacement is needed or logging historical usage patterns for predictive maintenance. The invention addresses the problem of inconsistent cartridge tracking in printing systems, which can result in downtime or unnecessary costs. By maintaining synchronized usage data, the control device enhances operational accuracy and reduces maintenance overhead.
5. The control device as in claim 1 , wherein the second related value is a charge that is obtained by using the first related value and is charged according to the print amount.
A control device for a printing system manages print-related operations by calculating and applying charges based on print volume. The device determines a first related value, such as print job data or user account information, and derives a second related value, specifically a charge, from this first value. The charge is adjusted according to the print amount, ensuring accurate billing or resource allocation. The system may also include a communication interface for transmitting data to external devices, such as servers or user interfaces, to facilitate charge calculation and reporting. The control device may further process print jobs, manage user authentication, or track print usage, ensuring efficient and cost-effective printing operations. The charge calculation may involve algorithms that account for factors like paper type, ink usage, or device maintenance costs, providing a comprehensive billing solution for print services. This approach optimizes resource management and cost transparency in printing environments.
6. The control device as in claim 5 , wherein a plurality of the first related values is obtained with the first period, the plurality of the first related values corresponds to a plural types of print that the print executing unit is capable of executing, the plurality of the first related values is obtained with the second period, and the second related value is the charge obtained by using the plurality of the first related values.
This invention relates to a control device for managing print operations in a printing system. The problem addressed is optimizing print execution by dynamically adjusting operational parameters based on real-time data to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The control device monitors and calculates a plurality of first related values over a first period, where these values correspond to different types of print jobs the system can execute. These values are also obtained over a second period, and a second related value, representing a charge or cost, is derived from the plurality of first related values. This allows the system to assess and adjust print operations based on varying conditions, such as print job types, resource usage, and cost factors. The control device ensures that print execution is optimized by leveraging these calculated values to make informed decisions, such as selecting the most efficient print mode or adjusting resource allocation. The system dynamically adapts to changes in print demands and operational constraints, enhancing overall performance and cost management.
7. The control device as in claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to: determine whether an absolute value of variation of the first related value within the latest first period is larger than a predetermined value in the case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold; repeatedly obtain the first related value with a third period being shorter than the second period in a case where it is determined that the absolute value of the variation is larger than the predetermined value; and every time the first related value is obtained with the third period, execute the second comparison process, wherein the first related value is obtained with the second period in a case where it is determined that the absolute value of the variation is less than or equal to the predetermined value.
This invention relates to a control device for managing print operations in a printing system, addressing the challenge of optimizing print quality and resource usage by dynamically adjusting monitoring intervals based on print activity. The device includes a controller that monitors print amounts using related values, such as ink consumption or print job frequency, to determine operational states. The controller compares these values against thresholds to assess print activity levels. If the print amount exceeds a first threshold, the controller evaluates the variation of a first related value (e.g., ink level or print job count) over a recent period. If the variation exceeds a predetermined threshold, the controller switches to a shorter monitoring interval (third period) to frequently reassess print conditions, ensuring timely adjustments. If the variation is within acceptable limits, the controller maintains a longer monitoring interval (second period) to reduce unnecessary checks. This adaptive approach balances responsiveness and efficiency, particularly in high-activity scenarios, by intensifying monitoring when significant changes occur and conserving resources during stable conditions. The system ensures consistent print quality while optimizing controller performance.
8. A server comprising: the control device as in claim 1 ; and a communication interface, wherein the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the first period from a target printer comprising the print executing unit via the communication interface, and the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the second period from the target printer via the communication interface.
This invention relates to a server system for monitoring and managing printer operations. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable data collection from printers to ensure proper functioning and maintenance. The system includes a control device that processes data related to printer operations, such as print job status, error logs, or resource usage. The server is equipped with a communication interface to interact with a target printer, which has a print execution unit for performing printing tasks. The server periodically retrieves a first related value from the printer at a first interval and a second related value at a second interval. These values may represent different types of operational data, such as real-time status updates or historical performance metrics. The dual-period retrieval ensures that critical data is monitored frequently while less urgent information is collected less often, optimizing network and processing efficiency. The control device may analyze these values to detect anomalies, predict maintenance needs, or optimize print job scheduling. This system enhances printer management by providing timely and structured data collection, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.
9. The server as in claim 8 , wherein the controller is further configured to: supply first request information to the target printer via the communication interface, the first request information being for requesting to repeatedly supply the first related value with the first period, wherein in response to the first request information being supplied to the target printer, the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the first period from the target printer without repeatedly requesting the target printer to supply the first related value; and supply second request information to the target printer via the communication interface in the case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold, the second request information being for requesting to repeatedly supply the first related value with the second period, wherein in response to the second request information being supplied to the target printer, the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the second period from the target printer without repeatedly requesting the target printer to supply the first related value.
A system for managing print-related data in a networked printing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring and controlling printer usage. The system includes a server with a controller and a communication interface that connects to a target printer. The controller is configured to obtain a first related value from the printer, which represents a print-related metric such as ink usage or page count. The controller performs a first comparison process to determine whether the print amount associated with the first related value exceeds a first threshold. If the print amount is below the threshold, the controller supplies first request information to the printer, instructing it to repeatedly provide the first related value at a first period without requiring repeated requests. This allows the server to monitor the printer's usage at regular intervals without manual intervention. If the print amount exceeds the first threshold, the controller supplies second request information to the printer, instructing it to provide the first related value at a second period, which may be shorter or longer than the first period. This dynamic adjustment ensures efficient data collection based on printer usage levels, optimizing resource management and reducing unnecessary communication overhead. The system enhances print monitoring by automating data retrieval and adapting to varying usage patterns.
10. The server as in claim 8 , wherein the control device comprises a memory storing, for each of a plurality of printers, related information that is related to the printer in association with an upper value that is an upper limit of the second related value obtained by using the first related value being related to the print amount of a print executing unit of the printer, the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the first period together with target related information from the target printer among the plurality of printers via the communication interface, the target related information being related to the target printer included in the plurality of printers; and the second related value is repeatedly obtained with the second period together with the target related information from the target printer via the communication interface, wherein each of the first threshold and the second threshold is obtained by using a target upper value associated with the obtained target related information in the memory.
This invention relates to a server system for managing printer-related data in a networked printing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring and controlling printer operations by tracking and analyzing printer usage metrics. The server includes a control device with a memory that stores printer-related information for multiple printers, each associated with an upper value representing an upper limit of a second related value derived from a first related value. The first related value corresponds to the print amount of a printer's print executing unit and is periodically obtained from a target printer, along with target-related information specific to that printer. The second related value is also periodically obtained from the target printer. The server uses these values to determine first and second thresholds based on the target upper value stored in memory, enabling dynamic adjustments to printer operations. This system allows for real-time monitoring and optimization of printer performance, ensuring efficient resource utilization and maintenance. The periodic data collection and threshold calculations help prevent overuse or underuse of printer components, improving overall system reliability and longevity.
11. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 1 , wherein the first comparison process is a process of determining whether the second related value is larger than the first threshold, the second comparison process is a process of determining whether the second related value is larger than the second threshold, the first threshold is a value less than an upper value that is an upper limit of the second related value, and the second threshold is a value less than the upper value and larger than the first threshold.
This invention relates to a computer-implemented method for evaluating a second related value against two distinct thresholds to determine its relative magnitude. The system compares the second related value to a first threshold and a second threshold, where the first threshold is smaller than the second threshold, and both thresholds are below an upper limit of the second related value. The first comparison process checks if the second related value exceeds the first threshold, while the second comparison process checks if it exceeds the second threshold. This approach allows for a tiered evaluation of the second related value, enabling different actions or decisions based on whether the value falls within specific ranges defined by the thresholds. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring graded responses to varying input values, such as performance monitoring, quality control, or adaptive systems where precise value categorization is necessary. The thresholds are dynamically set below the upper limit of the second related value, ensuring flexibility in defining critical boundaries for decision-making. The system ensures accurate and efficient classification of the second related value into predefined ranges, improving the reliability of subsequent processes dependent on this evaluation.
12. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 1 , wherein the first related value is the number of print media that have been printed by the print executing unit, and the second related value is identical to the first related value.
A system for tracking and managing print media usage in a printing device. The invention addresses the need to monitor and control the consumption of print media, such as paper, to optimize resource utilization and reduce waste. The system includes a print executing unit that processes print jobs and a tracking unit that records data related to print media usage. The tracking unit stores a first related value representing the number of print media sheets that have been printed by the print executing unit. Additionally, the system maintains a second related value that is identical to the first related value, ensuring consistency in tracking print media consumption. This dual-value approach allows for redundancy and verification of print media usage data, improving accuracy and reliability in monitoring print operations. The system may also include a display unit to present the tracked values to users or administrators, enabling better management of print resources. The invention is particularly useful in environments where print media usage needs to be closely monitored, such as offices, schools, or shared printing facilities. By providing a clear and consistent record of printed sheets, the system helps users and administrators make informed decisions about print media consumption and cost management.
13. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 1 , wherein the first related value is the number of cartridges that have been used by the print executing unit, and the second related value is identical to the first related value.
The invention relates to a system for managing print cartridge usage in a printing device. The problem addressed is the need to accurately track and compare cartridge usage data to optimize maintenance and replacement decisions. The system involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, perform operations related to cartridge monitoring. Specifically, the system tracks a first related value representing the number of cartridges used by the print executing unit and a second related value that is identical to the first. This dual tracking ensures redundancy and accuracy in usage data, preventing errors that could lead to premature or delayed cartridge replacement. The system may also compare these values to detect discrepancies, which could indicate errors in tracking or potential issues with the printing mechanism. By maintaining precise records of cartridge usage, the system helps extend cartridge life, reduce waste, and improve printing efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in high-volume printing environments where accurate tracking is critical for cost management and operational reliability.
14. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 1 , wherein the second related value is a charge that is obtained by using the first related value and is charged according to the print amount.
A system and method for managing print-related charges in a computing environment involves determining a first related value associated with a print job and calculating a second related value, which represents a charge based on the print amount. The system processes print job data to extract relevant information, such as the number of pages or other print metrics, and applies a pricing model to derive the charge. The second related value is then used to bill or track the cost of the print job. The system may also include user authentication, print job validation, and reporting features to ensure accurate charge calculation and usage tracking. The invention addresses the need for precise, automated print cost management in shared or commercial printing environments, where accurate billing and resource allocation are critical. The solution ensures that print costs are transparently and fairly distributed based on actual usage, reducing disputes and improving operational efficiency. The system may integrate with existing print management software or operate as a standalone service, supporting various printing devices and network configurations. The invention is particularly useful in office settings, educational institutions, or any environment where print cost tracking is required.
15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 14 , wherein a plurality of the first related values is obtained with the first period, the plurality of the first related values corresponds to plural types of print that the print executing unit is capable of executing, the plurality of the first related values is obtained with the second period, and the second related value is the charge obtained by using the plurality of the first related values.
This invention relates to a system for managing print-related charges in a printing environment. The problem addressed is the need to accurately calculate and track printing costs based on different types of print jobs executed by a printing unit. The system involves obtaining a plurality of first related values during a first period, where these values correspond to various types of print jobs that the printing unit can perform. These values are also obtained during a second period, and a second related value, representing the total charge, is derived from the plurality of first related values. The system ensures that charges are calculated based on the specific types of print jobs executed, allowing for precise cost tracking and billing. The invention improves upon existing systems by providing a more detailed and accurate method of determining printing costs, particularly in environments where multiple types of print jobs are processed. The use of distinct periods for obtaining related values ensures that the system can adapt to varying workloads and printing demands, enhancing overall efficiency and cost management.
16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 1 , wherein the computer-readable instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the control device to: determine whether an absolute value of variation of the first related value within the latest first period is larger than a predetermined value in the case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold; repeatedly obtain the first related value with a third period being shorter than the second period in a case where it is determined that the absolute value of the variation is larger than the predetermined value; and every time the first related value is obtained with the third period, execute the second comparison process, wherein the first related value is obtained with the second period in a case where it is determined that the absolute value of the variation is less than or equal to the predetermined value.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling print amounts in a printing device. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate and efficient print amount monitoring by dynamically adjusting the frequency of data acquisition based on detected variations in print-related parameters. The system includes a control device with a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions. The instructions cause the control device to compare a print amount related to a second related value against a first threshold. If the print amount exceeds this threshold, the system evaluates the absolute variation of a first related value over a recent first period. If this variation exceeds a predetermined value, the system increases the data acquisition frequency by obtaining the first related value at a shorter third period, which is less than a second period used under normal conditions. During this high-frequency monitoring, the system repeatedly performs a second comparison process each time the first related value is obtained. If the variation is within the predetermined limit, the system reverts to obtaining the first related value at the standard second period. This adaptive monitoring approach optimizes resource usage by intensifying data collection only when significant variations are detected, improving accuracy while reducing unnecessary processing. The system ensures efficient print amount control by dynamically adjusting measurement intervals based on real-time conditions.
17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 1 , wherein the control device is included in a server, the control device is connected to a communication interface of the server, the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the first period from a target printer comprising the print executing unit via the communication interface, and the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the second period from the target printer via the communication interface.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling a printer's operation, particularly focusing on managing print jobs and printer status through a server. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently tracking printer performance and ensuring timely execution of print tasks by dynamically adjusting monitoring intervals based on printer activity. The system includes a control device within a server that communicates with a target printer via a communication interface. The control device obtains a first related value, which represents printer status or performance metrics, at two different intervals: a first period for active monitoring and a second period for less frequent checks. This dual-period approach optimizes resource usage by intensively monitoring the printer when needed and reducing communication overhead during idle states. The control device processes the obtained values to determine printer conditions, such as job completion, errors, or resource availability. It then generates control signals to manage print jobs, adjust printer settings, or trigger maintenance actions. The system ensures efficient printer operation by balancing real-time monitoring with reduced network traffic, improving overall system reliability and performance.
18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium as in claim 17 , wherein the computer-readable instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the control device to: supply first request information to the target printer via the communication interface, the first request information being for requesting to repeatedly supply the first related value with the first period, wherein in response to the first request information being supplied to the target printer, the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the first period from the target printer without repeatedly requesting the target printer to supply the first related value; and supply second request information to the target printer via the communication interface in the case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold, the second request information being for requesting to repeatedly supply the first related value with the second period, wherein in response to the second request information being supplied to the target printer, the first related value is repeatedly obtained with the second period from the target printer without repeatedly requesting the target printer to supply the first related value.
This invention relates to a system for managing print-related data in a printing environment. The problem addressed is the inefficient retrieval of print-related values from a printer, which can lead to unnecessary communication overhead and delays in monitoring print operations. The invention provides a method to optimize the retrieval of print-related values, such as print amounts, by dynamically adjusting the frequency of data requests based on print activity. A control device communicates with a target printer via a communication interface. The control device initially supplies first request information to the printer, instructing it to repeatedly provide a first related value (e.g., print amount) at a first period. The printer then automatically supplies this value at the specified interval without requiring repeated requests from the control device. If the control device determines, through a comparison process, that the print amount exceeds a predefined threshold, it sends second request information to the printer, adjusting the retrieval period to a second, typically shorter, interval. This ensures more frequent monitoring when print activity is high, improving efficiency and responsiveness. The system avoids excessive communication by dynamically adjusting data retrieval rates based on print conditions.
19. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions for a control device, the computer-readable instructions, when executed by a processor of the control device, causing the control device to: repeatedly obtain a first related value with a first period, the first related value being related to print amount of a print executing unit; every time the first related value is obtained with the first period, execute a first comparison process of comparing a second related value being related to the print amount and a first threshold being related to the print amount the second related value being obtained by using the first related value which is obtained at this time; repeatedly obtain the first related value with a second period being shorter than the first period in a case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold, wherein the first related value is not obtained with the second period in a case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is less than or equal to the print amount being related to the first threshold; every time the first related value is obtained with the second period, execute a second comparison process of comparing the second related value being obtained by using the first related value which is obtained at this time and a second threshold being related to the print amount, wherein the print amount being related to the second threshold is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold; and execute a related process that is related to print executed by the print executing unit in a case where it is determined in the second comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount related to the second threshold, wherein the related process is not executed in a case where it is determined in the second comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is less than or equal to the print amount being related to the second threshold.
This invention relates to a control system for monitoring and managing print operations in a printing device. The system addresses the need to efficiently track print volume while minimizing computational overhead by dynamically adjusting the frequency of data acquisition based on print activity levels. The control device repeatedly obtains a first related value, which corresponds to the print amount of a print executing unit, at a first period. Each time this value is obtained, a first comparison process is executed to compare a second related value (derived from the first related value) against a first threshold. If the print amount exceeds this threshold, the system switches to a second, shorter period for obtaining the first related value. If the print amount does not exceed the threshold, the system continues using the first period. During the second period, a second comparison process compares the second related value against a second, higher threshold. If the print amount exceeds this second threshold, a related process (such as maintenance or alert generation) is executed. If not, the process is skipped. This adaptive monitoring ensures efficient resource usage by intensifying data collection and processing only when high print volumes are detected.
20. A method performed by a control device, the method comprising: repeatedly obtaining a first related value with a first period, the first related value being related to print amount of a print executing unit; every time the first related value is obtained with the first period, executing a first comparison process of comparing a second related value being related to the print amount and a first threshold being related to the print amount, the second related value obtained by using the first related value which is obtained at this time; repeatedly obtaining the first related value with a second period being shorter than the first period in a case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold, wherein the first related value is not obtained with the second period in a case where it is determined in the first comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is less than or equal to the print amount being related to the first threshold; every time the first related value is obtained with the second period, executing a second comparison process of comparing the second related value being obtained by using the first related value which is obtained at this time and a second threshold being related to the print amount, wherein the print amount being related to the second threshold is larger than the print amount being related to the first threshold; and executing a related process that is related to print executed by the print executing unit in a case where it is determined in the second comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is larger than the print amount being related to the second threshold, wherein the related process is not executed in a case where it is determined in the second comparison process that the print amount being related to the second related value is less than or equal to the print amount being related to the second threshold.
This invention relates to a method for monitoring and controlling print amount in a printing system. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate tracking of print volume to trigger maintenance or other related processes without unnecessary computational overhead. The method involves a control device that repeatedly obtains a first related value, which is associated with the print amount of a print executing unit, at a first period. Each time this value is obtained, a first comparison process is executed, comparing a second related value (derived from the first related value) against a first threshold. If the print amount indicated by the second related value exceeds the first threshold, the control device switches to obtaining the first related value at a shorter second period. This increased sampling rate continues until the print amount falls below or equal to the first threshold, at which point the device reverts to the original first period. During the second period, a second comparison process is performed each time the first related value is obtained. This process compares the second related value against a second threshold, which is higher than the first threshold. If the print amount exceeds this second threshold, a related process (such as maintenance or alert generation) is executed. If the print amount does not exceed the second threshold, the related process is not executed. This adaptive sampling approach ensures efficient monitoring of print volume while minimizing unnecessary processing.
Unknown
May 26, 2020
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.